Bouillon. Mrs. W. C. Denman. Recipe

Bouillon Recipe: Mrs. W. C. Denman

Bouillon is a popular broth-based soup that has been enjoyed for centuries. It originated in France and has since become a beloved dish worldwide. With its rich and flavorful broth, bouillon is known for its ability to warm and comfort on a chilly day or provide nourishment when one is feeling under the weather.

Before we dive into the recipe for Mrs. W. C. Denman's Bouillon, let's take a moment to explore the history and fun facts surrounding this classic dish. The word "bouillon" comes from the French word "bouillir," which means "to boil." It is believed that the concept of bouillon was first introduced in the 17th century by the French chef Francois Pierre La Varenne.

Traditionally, bouillon was made by simmering meat, bones, and vegetables in water to extract their flavors and create a flavorful broth. It was often enjoyed as a standalone soup or used as a base for other soups, stews, and sauces. Over time, variations of bouillon emerged, incorporating different ingredients and seasonings to create unique flavors.

Now, let's delve into the recipe for Mrs. W. C. Denman's Bouillon:

Ingredients:
- 3 pounds of lean beef, cut into small pieces
- 1 soup bone
- 3 quarts of cold water
- 1 tablespoon of salt
- 6 pepper corns
- 6 cloves
- 1 tablespoon of mixed herbs
- 1-2 onions, chopped
- Pepper, salt, and Worcestershire sauce (to taste)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine the lean beef, soup bone, and cold water. Bring to a simmer over low heat.

2. Add the salt, pepper corns, cloves, mixed herbs, and chopped onions to the pot. Stir to combine.

3. Allow the bouillon to simmer slowly for five hours. This extended cooking time will help to extract as much flavor from the ingredients as possible.

4. Once the five hours are up, strain the bouillon to remove any meat, bones, and vegetable remnants.

5. Let the bouillon cool down, then place it in the refrigerator. This will allow any excess fat to solidify on the top, making it easy to remove.

6. Before serving, heat the bouillon again over low heat. This will bring it back to the desired temperature.

7. Season the bouillon with pepper, salt, and Worcestershire sauce according to your taste preferences. Adjust the seasoning as needed to achieve a perfect balance of flavors.

And there you have it – a delicious and comforting bowl of Mrs. W. C. Denman's Bouillon! This hearty soup is perfect to enjoy on its own or as a base for other recipes.

To enhance the flavor and add texture to your bouillon, you can also consider adding some other ingredients. For example, you can add vegetables like carrots, celery, or leeks during the cooking process to impart additional depth to the broth. You can also include cooked shredded chicken, beef, or pork to make it a heartier meal.

Bouillon is often served as a starter or appetizer in a multi-course meal, typically preceding the main course. In some countries, it is enjoyed as a warm beverage during cold winter months.

Similar recipe dishes to bouillon include consommé, stock, and broth. Consommé is similar to bouillon but is more clarified and elegant. Stock is a rich liquid made by simmering bones, while broth is a flavorful liquid made by simmering meat or vegetables.

So, whether you're looking for a soothing soup to enjoy on a cozy night or searching for a versatile base for other recipes, Mrs. W. C. Denman's Bouillon is the perfect choice. Give it a try and savor the delightful flavors of this classic dish!